Which level is right for you?

Your route to a brighter future

Key Skills

During most programmes you will study Key Skills, which form an important part in ensuring that you develop the skills you need to move on. Key Skills of application of number, communication and IT are integrated into every full time vocational course and these skills are key requirements for employers.

Entry Level

Entry level qualifications recognise basic knowledge and skills and the ability to apply learning in everyday situations under direct guidance or supervision. Learning at this level involves building basic knowledge and skills and is not geared towards specific occupations.

Qualifications are offered at Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3, in a range of subjects.

Level 1

Level 1 qualifications recognise basic knowledge and skills and the ability to apply learning with guidance or supervision. Learning at this level is about activities which mostly relate to every situations and may be linked to job competence.

NVQ 1; GCSEs Grades D-G

Level 2

Level 2 qualifications recognise the ability to gain a good knowledge and understanding of a subject area of work or study, and to perform varied tasks with some guidance or supervision. Learning at this level involves building knowledge and/or skills in relation to an area of work or a subject area and is appropriate for many job roles.

NVQ 2; GCSEs Grades A*-C; BTEC First Diploma, Apprenticeship

Level 3

Level 3 qualifications recognise the ability to gain, and where relevant apply a range of knowledge, skills and understanding. Learning at this level involves obtaining detailed knowledge and skills. It is appropriate for people wishing to go to university, people working independently, or in some areas supervising and training others in their field of work.

NVQ 3; A-Levels; BTEC National Diploma, Advanced Apprenticeship

Level 4

Level 4 qualifications recognise specialist learning and involve detailed analysis of a high level of information and knowledge in an area of work or study. Learning at this level is appropriate for people working in technical and professional jobs, and/or managing and developing others.

NVQ 4; Foundation Degree, BA(Hons), teaching qualifications

Level 5

Level 5 qualifications recognise the ability to deepen knowledge and understanding of an area of work or study to enable the formulation of solutions and responses to complex problems and situations. Learning at this level involves the demonstration of high levels of knowledge, a high level of work expertise in job roles and competence in managing and training others. Qualifications at this level are appropriate for people working as higher grade technicians, professionals or managers.

Level 5 qualifications are at a level equivalent to intermediate Higher Education qualifications such as Foundation and other degrees that do not typically provide access to postgraduate programmes.